The best beauty buys for 2012 according to InStyle were listed in the magazine's May issue. Nail products included:
- Zoya Remove Plus, best remover — This three-in-one is "not your average remover," says L.A. nail pro Jenna Hipp. It comes in a convenient pump (no muss, no fuss), and it's so incredibly strong that it can remove black polish in a single swipe. Yet, it's gentle, moisturizing nails without leaving a white film.
- Orly Bonder, best base coat — Living up to its name, this rubberized base coat bonds to the nail bed so polish remains chip-free for seven to 10 days, says New York manicurist Dana D'Andraia, who works with Kerry Washington. Its pink-based undertone gives nails an "extra-healthy glow," adds manicurist Julie Kandalec.
- Essie Power Clutch, best trendy color — This steely gray has green undertones that make it as flattering as it is trendy, says manicurist Aggie Zaro. Plus, it has a chameleon quality — it seems to shift colors in different light.
- Essie Wicked, best dark shade — This is "your go-to dark, vampy color," says manicurist Dawn Sterling, who has used the fierce hue on Rihanna. The reddish-brown is "modern, classy, and edgy," says Lisa Jachno.
For reprint and licensing requests for this article, Click here.